Funeral services to be held July 25
Ceramic Tile Distributors Association Past President and Hall of Fame member Mark A. Carlson passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the age of 72. He dedicated more than five decades to the tile industry.
Carlson spent the majority of his career with Century Tile, one of the Midwest’s premier flooring companies, where he built lifelong relationships and earned the respect of customers, manufacturers, suppliers, and co-workers throughout the Midwest and across the world. He was instrumental in the creation of American Olean Midwest (AOM), where his leadership, vision, and industry expertise helped lay the foundation for the organization’s early success.
Throughout his career, Carlson became known for his honesty, integrity, unwavering work ethic, and genuine care for the people around him. He was admired not only for his expertise, but for the kindness, humility, and respect he showed to everyone he met.
Above all, Carlson was devoted to his family. His greatest joy came from being a loving husband, a proud father and grandfather, and a trusted friend. His quiet strength, wisdom, and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
The Carlson family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, colleagues, and members of the tile community for the overwhelming outpouring of love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.
He is survived by his wife, Elaine; his children, Keith and Christy; his grandchildren; and many extended family members, friends, and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his son, Scott Carlson, in 2023.
Visitation and funeral services will be held Saturday, July 25 at Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home, 185 E. Northwest Highway, Palatine, Ill., 60067. For complete service information, to share a memory, or to leave condolences, visit Mark’s Memorial Page.
